Washington, DC – American Gaming Association (AGA) Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Sara Rayme released the following statement after the Nevada Gaming Control Board announced that a record-breaking $292 million was bet at Nevada sports books in April, an increase from $250 million in April 2015:

“Sports betting has never been more popular, yet most Americans are forced to the illegal market, where they bet billions of dollars a year through bookies and offshore websites. Instead of a failed federal ban, it’s time for a new approach that, as NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has repeatedly noted, recognizes the benefits of a legal, regulated and transparent marketplace that protects the integrity of the sports we all love.”

About AGA: The American Gaming Association is the premier national trade group representing the $240 billion U.S casino industry, which supports 1.7 million jobs in 40 states. AGA members include commercial and tribal casino operators, suppliers and other entities affiliated with the gaming industry. It is the mission of the AGA to be the single most effective champion of the industry, relentlessly protecting against harmful and often misinformed public policies, and paving a path for growth, innovation and reinvestment.